NSCC Nautical Institute - Maritime Training Programs

The Nova Scotia Community College (NSCC) is one of Nova Scotia's largest and most diverse community college serving the province of Nova Scotia. Each year, more than 25,000 students choose to grow and learn with NSCC. The college offers a diverse program of trades, technology, health, human services, applied arts, new media, business administration and adult education through a system of thirteen campuses and six community learning centers located throughout the province.

The NSCC includes nationally recognized specialized institutes and the Nautical Institute is a state-of-the-art technical school located at Port Hawkesbury on the coast of Cape Breton Island. NSCC Nautical Institute offers Transport Canada approved marine training for students who want to start or advance their career at sea.

Students from all over the world come to Nova Scotia's Nautical Institute to learn new skills and get the chance to develop these skills with hands-on approach to learning. Students learn in specially designed marine facilities, including a wave tank, free-fall lifeboat and fire training centre, and with state-of-the-art simulation equipment for navigation and engine room training.The Nautical Institute is part of the NSCC Strait Area Campus.

Maritime Training Programs

Marine Engineering Programs

Marine Engineering Technology - Advanced Diploma (1.5 years, full time): This program prepares you for a career as a ship's Engineering Officer in the commercial marine industry. You build on your broad-based knowledge of the engineering systems used on a modern ship, with a focus on four functions at the management level: marine engineering; electrical, electronic and control engineering; maintenance and repair; and leadership/managerial skills.

Marine Engineering Technology - Diploma (2.5 years, full time): The program offers a comprehensive course load complete with advanced training modules and techniques. You build a broad-based knowledge of highly complex engineering systems of a modern ship. You study the major principles of mechanical and hydraulic machinery, electrical systems, naval architecture and ship construction instrumentation and control systems, computer and information technology and then put the theory to work in the operation of a state-of-the-art propulsion plant simulator. Practical safety training is essential and is covered through the campus Fire Fighting and Boat Facilities.

Deck Officer Programs

Marine Navigation Technology - Advanced Diploma (1 year, full time): This program prepares you for a career as a ship's navigation officer in the commercial marine industry. You build on your navigation training and sea experience with a focus on three functions at the management level: marine navigation, cargo handling and stowage and ship operations and safety.

Marine Navigation Technology - Diploma (3 years, full time): This program provides the academic and applied skills necessary for an entry-level deck officer trained to International Maritime Organization standards. The program is accredited by Transport Canada in accordance with international Convention on Standard of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping (STCW 95). Upon successful completion you qualify for Transport Canada's Watchkeeping Mate certificate of competency. This allows you to sail as a Watchkeeping mate around the globe on any type of merchant ship. This program also prepares you to continue your training to advance to higher levels of Transport Canada certification.

Maritime Training - Quick-Start Programs

Bridge Watch Rating (26 weeks): This program prepares you to successfully complete Transport Canada's Bridge Watch Rating Certificate, a pre-requisite for entry into work on marine vessels. You will be introduced to all aspects of the mariner's trade through a combination of classroom and hands-on training in shops, simulators and at sea.

Engine Room Rating (28 weeks): The Engine Room Rating program provides an introduction to Marine Engineering Systems operations, including the safe watchkeeping and operation of auxiliary machinery and associated controls, marine diesel engines, steam turbine plants, marine boilers and main steam systems. With just 15 weeks of class time and a 13-week work placement, you will have the skills and knowledge to complete a written and practical examination and to achieve the certification requirements for Transport Canada's Engine Room Rating (ERR).